Microblading has become a very popular cosmetic procedure where you can have natural looking fuller brows without daily makeup. However like any tattooing procedure proper aftercare is key to getting the best results. One of the most common questions clients ask after their initial microblading appointment is can I shower? This article will walk you through the healing process of Microbladed eyebrows and give you detailed aftercare instructions so your brows heal beautifully.
The Microblading Process Explained
Before we get to the showering question, let’s first understand what microblading is and how the healing process works. Microblading involves using a fine blade to deposit semi permanent pigment into the top layers of the skin. This creates thin hair like strokes that mimic the look of natural eyebrow hairs. Results are immediate but your brows will go through a healing process that takes around 7-14 days. During this time the skin is recovering from the small incisions made by the technician and proper aftercare is key to avoid complications.
Avoid Showering After Microblading
After your microblading procedure your eyebrow skin is in a delicate healing state and water can disrupt the healing process. Excessive moisture especially when the brows are exposed to hot water or water splashes can cause the pigment particles to lift or fade prematurely. Lymph fluid, excess fluid or excess lymph fluid that accumulates can affect the implant pigment and cause uneven brows or incomplete healing. This applies to all forms of cosmetic tattooing including eyebrow tattoo and powder brows where aftercare is key to long term results.
Can I shower immediately after?
For the first 24-48 hours after your microblading appointment you should not get your eyebrows wet. Water exposure can disrupt the wound healing process. Direct contact with water, soap or harsh chemicals can interfere with the natural healing process and cause pigment loss or uneven brow. Excess water can also irritate the delicate eyebrow skin.
Safely Shower After
You can’t avoid showering altogether but you can follow these steps to protect your brows during the healing period:
- Cover Your Brows: 7 days after microblading, use shower visors, shower eye shields, or flexible shower heads to block the water from hitting your eyebrows. A clean cloth or DRY cloth can also be used to gently cover your brows.
- No Hot Showers and Steam: Hot baths and steam can make you sweat a lot which can disrupt the healing. Elevated body temperature can also disrupt the healing of the skin. Stick to lukewarm water and keep your shower short to minimize sweating.
- Keep Your Face Dry: Use a damp cotton pad or cotton swab to gently clean the skin around your brows. Don’t scrub or rub as this can damage the feather touch strokes of your new brows.
- Protect Your Brows with Ointment: 2 hours after microblading, your technician will likely recommend using a microblading aftercare ointment or healing balm to keep your brows moist and irritation free. Apply a thin layer of ointment after showering to keep your brows moist.
- Facial Products: Avoid using glycolic acid, chemical peels or harsh chemicals near your brows while they heal. Harsh products can cause premature fading or prevent pigment deposition.
- Drying Your Brows After Showering: After showering, pat your brows dry with a clean tissue or soft tissue. Don’t rub the area as this can irritate the skin and cause uneven brows. Keep your brows dry but not too harshly wiped.
- No Soap Directly on Your Brows: Traces of soap or using bar soap on the brow area can cause irritation. Use antibacterial soap to clean the surrounding skin but avoid direct contact with the brows.
When Can I Shower Normally?
After the procedure, you need to protect your brows for at least 48 hours. By 4-6 weeks most of the healing will be done and you can go back to your normal routine. But during this time, water exposure should still be minimized as skin is still healing.
Other Post Aftercare Tips
Besides showering precautions:
- No Sun: Sun exposure can cause premature fading. Keep your brows away from direct sunlight especially during the first few weeks after microblading.
- No Tanning Beds and Hot Showers: Tanning beds and hot water can irritate the healing eyebrow skin and cause color fading.
- Use Cotton Pad for Touchups: If needed, use a clean cotton pad to apply aftercare ointment or healing balm during the healing process.
- Be Gentle with Makeup: Don’t apply makeup directly on the Microbladed brows until they are fully healed. If you must, make sure the makeup is gentle and chemical free.
Conclusion
After your eyebrow microblading appointment be sure to follow the aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth and effective healing process. Water, excess fluid and harsh chemicals should be kept to a minimum to avoid loss of pigment and for your brows to heal beautifully. By using the right aftercare products, protecting your brows from water and following the tips above your Microbladed eyebrows will stay intact and look natural throughout the healing process.
FAQ
Can I shower right after microblading?
Do not get your brows wet for at least 24-48 hours after microblading to prevent loss of pigment and proper healing.
What if my brows get wet after microblading?
Too much water or moisture can cause pigment loss, scabbing or uneven healing of the hair strokes.
Can I use soap on my brows after microblading?
Do not use harsh soap or bar soap on your brows. Use gentle products and keep soap away from the brow area during the healing process.
How long before I can shower normally?
You can shower normally after 4-6 weeks but still protect your brows from water exposure for the first few weeks.
What to avoid during the healing process?
Sun exposure, hot water, chemical peels, harsh chemicals and direct contact with water or soap on the brows to ensure natural healing and color retention
